Known for its preservation of Southern Appalachian history, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also a treasure trove of animals, plants, and forests. The park is an excellent place to enjoy a winter weekend getaway, and is a favorite spot among North Carolinians as well as those living in nearby states. Here’s our guide to a wonderful winter weekend getaway at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Yes, there are frequently winter conditions in North Carolina, and that’s why park rangers recommend winter camping take place within one of their front-country camping areas. This means camping not far away from your vehicle in a developed campground. Restrooms are available, as is cold running water, provided it hasn’t been shut off due to freezing conditions. Each campsite has a fire grate and picnic table. The Cades Cove and the Smokemont campgrounds are both open year-round.
Abrams Falls is likely among the more popular of all the hikes in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It’s perfect for the whole family and hikers of all levels. The round-trip is about five miles in length. Stroll through all of the flora and fauna to discover the treasure of the hike. The best part of the hike is the beautiful falls which cascade down a mere 20 feet but offer wonderful views of the lush environment. Check park personnel at your chosen camping area for directions to the trail.
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Cross-country skiing takes place throughout the winter months along Clingmans Dome Road, as it remains unplowed. Newfound Gap Road, the public highway that leads to Clingmans Dome Road, is always plowed, making access to the ski area quite convenient. There are many trails at varying levels, so get directions from nearby park rangers to figure out which trail is fit for you. This is also a popular spot for snowshoeing.
Fontana Lake is home to several kinds of fish, and a popular place in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for testing your skills as an angler. Reel in crappie, rock bass, sunfish, catfish, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, white bass and walleye throughout the lake. There is no hunting of any kind allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so those enjoying a taste of the wilderness in the literal sense will have to stick to fishing. Trout over a campfire is definitely a delicious treat!
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Bogart’s Restaurant and Tavern is a great place to treat the family to a delicious lunch or dinner. Lots of pub fare is on the menu, with favorites like their Prolific Sweet Potato. It’s filled with pulled pork, bacon, a variety of cheeses barbecue sauce, chipotle sauce and chives. It’s a meal in itself.
Who doesn’t love a delicious country buffet? You’ll get exactly that when you bring the whole gang to Granny’s Kitchen. After cooking over a fire throughout your winter weekend getaway, a hearty meal someone else has prepared—and eating it indoors, too—will definitely fit the bill. Dine on roast beef, fried chicken, veggies, countless sides and delectable desserts.
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Show the kids what toys were like when you or your parents were children by taking the family to Down Memory Lane Toy Museum. You’ll see a variety of toys dating as far back as the early 1900s. There weren’t any electronic devices or video games back then, so be prepared for some complaining. By the time you leave, however, they might decide that the good old days weren’t all that bad.
Visit Black Dome Mountain Sports before your winter weekend getaway, and you’ll be certain you’ve stocked up on everything needed for camping, fishing and more. Locally owned and operated for more than 30 years, the folks here know exactly what you’ll need to take into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Rap up your winter weekend getaway in Great Smoky Mountain National Park with a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. The kids will love the Polar Express ride, where “enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story.” The train arrives at the North Pole where Santa Claus will be waiting to greet all of the passengers. There are a variety of other rides, some featuring boxed lunches.
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